Arthur Blythe, David Eyges and Bruce Ditmas: "Synergy"

Sometimes a jazz band's instrumentation can be a constant source of inspiration, especially when it demands that the musicians relate in unexpected ways. That's certainly the case on this unconventionally configured and unusually interactive trio session, featuring alto saxophonistArthur Blythe, electric cellist David Tyges and drummer Bruce Ditmas.

In the album's liner notes, writer Bert Noglik refers to the group's music as "playgrounds on improvisation," a phrase that seems particularly apt given the inquisitive and sometimes whimsical nature of the album's nine performances. Far from off putting, the trio's admittedly quiky updates on swing and R&B traditions are often disarmingly accessible. So much so that there are times on "Afternoon Musings" and other tracks when the group's collaborative thrust recalls the sort of or romantic revivalism chamioned by Lester Bowie's Breass Fantasy or the skewed jazz and pop sensibilities of guitarist Bill Frisell.

Blythe, Eyges and Ditmas respond to each other in genuinely distinctive fashion, with the saxophone and cello often conversing over the now prodding, now roiling rhythms. Eyges is forever playing musical chairs, filling in for bassist on "Walking Line," mimicking horn and Guitar parts on other tracks and serving Blythe as a nimble foil during some of his more passionate recitals. The result may not qualify as "free jazz," but it has a wonderfully liberated spirit.

-Mike Joyce